Many
of the animals presented to the Animal Emergency Center have critical
or life-threatening problems that require immediate medical attention.
This necessitates that animals and their families are serviced on
a medical priority basis. When the waiting area is full, it can be
expected that waiting times will be extended. It can be frustrating
to have an extended waiting time when the waiting room appears to
be empty. However, during these times there is a high level of activity
“behind the scenes”. Unlike human hospitals, the doctors
and nurses that examine and admit patients from the waiting room are
the same doctors and nurses that stabilize critical incoming animals,
work with the ICU cases, run laboratory tests, take radiographs and
perform other imaging techniques, administer anesthesia, and perform
major and minor surgeries. They must get animals ready for discharge
and speak with owners about their hospitalized animals. Should a hospitalized
or in-coming animal have a crisis, the doctors and nurses must stop
their current activities and assist in the resuscitation of this critical
patient. This can delay the examination of an animal determined to
be stable at triage.
Unfortunately, delays can occur with “appointment”
times with specialists, as well. The specialists of the Animal Emergency
Center may be required to assist with the resuscitation of a critical
animal. We ask for your patience while more critical animals and their
families are assisted.
Refreshments
are provided for your comfort during your wait. There is coffee and
tea readily available in the waiting area. Should you desire a water,
juice or soda during a prolonged wait, please tell the receptionist
what you would like. We have crayons and educational coloring materials
for children. There are informational Seasonal Warnings and other
brochures for your education available at the reception desk. We strive
to make you and your pet as comfortable as possible during your wait
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